Newham is launching a new Civic Awards Scheme to honour the extraordinary achievements and dedication of residents and groups who make a difference to the community.

The council has agreed a new system for deciding who deserves special recognition. Introducing the Newham Civic Awards plan, the Mayor said the awards would break with the “secrecy of the past” in handing out council gongs – the new system would be open and transparent, she said.

The Civic Awards will be in addition to the existing process for granting Freedom of the Borough and recognition of honorary Alderman or Alderwoman.

Residents are asked to make their nominations for Civic Awards and the final selection will be made by an Awards Panel made up of councillors and community representatives.

A call for nominations is being launched in December with a closing date at the end of January. A formal awards ceremony will be held at the annual council meeting in May.

Nominations can be made for any individual or volunteer, community or faith group or local business. There will be five categories of award reflecting the priorities of the council and there will be a total of 10-15 civic awards in all..

Simultaneously, nominations for honorary freeman and freewoman, and alderman and alderwoman awards will be agreed at a special council meeting at the end of February 22.

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